OUT OF LEFT FIELD

Next pope must open up the church

(CNN) — The announcement of the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI came as a bolt from the blue to the world but not a moment too soon for many Catholics.

The Catholic Church has continued to march backwards under Pope Benedict, seeming at times to be in a state of perpetual denial, whether the issue be that of child abuse, birth control, homosexuality or the role of women.

At the heart of the church there lies a deep chauvinism that seems to have infected the whole edifice.

What's your biggest concern in wake of Pope Benedict resignation?

I don't believe in God and therefore have no concerns or interest in any church matters

I have no concerns. He was anointed by God for a period of time, and now God will guide the selection of his successor

Hopefully his replacement will be more progressive and bring the Catholic Church into the modern age

I'm not concerned. The Catholic Church is a well-oiled machine and deals with new popes all the time

I'm concerned about the possible selection of a replacement who waters down or changes Church doctrine in the name of progress

The announcement adds to the instability of an already chaotic and rudderless world

Now the prophesied final pope is here, and it means Armageddon is at our doorstep